Höfn in 1 Day for Friends - Visit a less-crowded natural ice cave selected by the guide
In Collaboration with Glacier Trips. Updated on February 13, 2026.
Small-group ice cave experience leaving from Jökulsárlón (Glacier Lagoon). We use a super jeep to reach the glacier area, fit you with provided safety gear, hike as needed, and visit a naturally formed ice cave selected by the guide. Typical total time: 5 hours 30 minutes. Start time 09:00 (subject to weather and guide decision).
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Glacier Trips, inspired by the tour Ice cave - Adventures dream. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Visit a less-crowded natural ice cave selected by the guide
- Super jeep transfer close to the glacier
- Guided glacier-area hike with time for photography
Itinerary
Day 1
Full guided ice cave experience starting and ending at Jökulsárlón parking lot. Exact ice cave and approach depend on weather and glacier conditions; the guide will choose the safest, least-crowded option on the day.
Meet at Jökulsárlón parking lot
Gather at the main Jökulsárlón parking area. Quick check-in and headcount before briefing and gear fitting.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start at the marked Jökulsárlón parking lot to allow time for check-in.
- Dress in warm base and mid layers — outer shell and crampons will be provided but initial warmth matters.
- Keep valuables and spare batteries for cameras in an inner, insulated pocket; cold drains batteries quickly.
Safety briefing & gear fitting
Guide issues backpacks, crampons, helmets, ice axes as required and runs through safety procedures, glacier travel basics, and photography guidance for the cave.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots — crampons fit over them; guides will check compatibility.
- Tell the guide immediately about any medical conditions or concerns (e.g., ankle sensitivity) during fitting.
- Practice camera settings (exposure, white balance) while on the shore to save time once inside the cave.
Super jeep transfer toward glacier access point
Drive in a customized super jeep from the parking area as close as road and conditions allow to the glacier approach point selected by the guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small daypack for personal items; larger bags are harder to stow in the super jeep.
- Expect a bumpy ride — use the provided handholds and follow the guide's instructions when boarding.
- Keep cameras and phones secure during the drive; use wrist/neck straps to prevent drops.
Hike to glacier approach / short glacier walk
Guided walk from the vehicle to the glacier edge; depending on conditions the route can include walking on the glacier for short sections to reach the ice cave.
Tips from local experts:
- Follow the guide's line at all times; crevasses and unstable ice are not always visible from a distance.
- Use provided crampons and ice axe as instructed — practice steps on firmer ground first if unfamiliar.
- Carry a small, quick snack and water in an inner pocket; you may be active for an extended period in cold air.
Ice cave exploration & photography
Time inside and around the naturally-formed ice cave chosen by the guide. Ample time for photography; guide manages group rotations and safety while inside the cave.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring spare camera batteries stored against your body to keep them warm; cold reduces battery life.
- Use a small tripod or steady yourself against the ice for longer exposures — guide will advise stable spots.
- Respect the guide's instructions on where to stand and how long to stay inside; safety and cave stability dictate time limits.
Return hike and transfer back to Jökulsárlón
Walk back to the vehicle and ride the super jeep to the original meeting area; time to remove gear and warm up.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep crampons on until the guide says it's safe to remove them to avoid slips on mixed terrain.
- Exchange contact details with companions if you want to share photos later; remote areas may have poor mobile reception.
- Layer removal is easiest if you loosen zips and straps before arriving at the vehicle to speed up the process.
Gear return, debrief & finish at Jökulsárlón
Return all provided gear, short debrief and safe end of the tour at the Jökulsárlón parking area. Tour concludes here.
Tips from local experts:
- Check all personal belongings before leaving the meeting area; pockets and backpacks can hold small items overnight.
- Warm up with a hot drink from nearby stalls or your own thermos — beverages at Jökulsárlón are seasonal and limited.
- If you plan to continue exploring Jökulsárlón, allow extra time; parking can be busy later in the day.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Experience, Transfer, Outdoor, Break |
